|
In a hasty grab for cash, the Rees Government has confirmed it will sell the Seaforth TAFE site as part of the Mini Budget process, said Member for Manly Mike Baird.
“This Government could not have its priorities more out of order – at a time when families across the State are hurting, it is hiking taxes and robbing communities of transport and education,” Mr Baird said.
“The Rees Government has identified $200 million worth of Department of Education land, which it deems to be ‘not needed’ and the former Seaforth TAFE is one of those sites.
“It will be sold before the end of the financial year in what can only be regarded as an act of education vandalism.
“How the Rees Government could deem the Seaforth TAFE site to be unnecessary when we have a skills shortage is beyond me.
“Kindergartens in the Manly area are bursting at the seams with enrolments at Curl Curl North and Seaforth Public Schools almost doubling in five years.
“Demand for public education is clearly at capacity and the problem is only going to get worse with the current baby boom in Manly.
“In April this year local residents voted overwhelmingly in favour of retaining the Seaforth TAFE site for public education.
“The Rees Government is conveniently ignoring the community’s views because they are desperate to seize funds to cover up years of their financial mismanagement.
“If the NSW Government had simply ensured expenses did not exceed revenue growth during its term, there would be no need for drastic cuts to services and fire sales.
“The Seaforth TAFE site must be retained for public education and not sacrificed for short-term gain.
“I urge locals to share their views with the Education Minister by emailing
This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
and copying me on
This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
MEDIA: Lisa Harrington - 0406 726 880
|
